The Value of Experience: Why Baby Boomers Still Belong in the Workplace.
I went to the mall for the first time today in probably three years. Why go when lovely drivers deliver whatever I need right to my doorstep? MAC was having a sale, so I ordered two eyeshadows that were 30% off, and I thought I would save $6 in delivery charges and see what was going on at the mall. I parked at Nordstrom so I could blow through there just to take a peek on the way to claim by treasure that I saved $6 on delivery and a 30% discount on.
When I got to the MAC store, an overly made-up Gen Z gave me a dead-eyed stare and asked if I had been notified if the order was ready. I said, “I ordered it online yesterday; what’s to get ready? Here’s the receipt.” I showed her my digital receipt. I could literally see the giant rack of eyeshadow out of the corner of my eye, five feet from where we were standing. It’s not like she was going to the back and whipping up an eyeshadow potion just for me. She sighed and went to the back. After several minutes, she came back out and said she guessed she could just get it for me. I wanted to come across the counter at her, but I told her, “I would appreciate it very much.” She walked five feet to the counter and dropped the eyeshadows into a bag, and off I went.
Happy to just be a part of it all.
On the way back to my car, I stopped in Chico’s. The Boomer working there nearly fell over herself as she came over, beaming as she told me everything in the store was 25% off. Same experience at Nordstrom: a Boomer cheerfully looked up to see if they had the pants size I needed, then scoured the sale racks to help me find them. Then there was Boomer Bobbie at Sephora. She excitedly discussed skincare regimens and moisturizer as long as I was willing to stand there and listen.
So $280 later, I escaped from the mall. But I saved $6 on shipping!
Here are 10 reasons why you should consider hiring a Baby Boomer (born 1946-1964):
1. Strong Work Ethic – Boomers are often recognized for their dedication, reliability, and willingness to put in the effort necessary to get the job done.
2. Extensive Experience – Decades of professional and life experience give them perspective, practical knowledge, and an understanding of what works and what doesn't.
3. Problem-Solving Skills – Having navigated economic downturns, industry disruptions, and workplace challenges, many Boomers have developed strong critical-thinking and decision-making skills.
4. Professionalism – They often place a high value on accountability, integrity, workplace etiquette, and representing their employer positively.
5. Strong Interpersonal Skills – Having spent much of their careers building relationships through personal interaction, they can be particularly effective at communicating, negotiating, and resolving conflicts.
6. Loyalty and Commitment – Many Boomers value long-term professional relationships and take pride in contributing to an organization's success. Some employers may think they are focused on retirement. Boomers are likely to stay at a company longer than the younger generations, who often move every couple of years to advance their careers.
7. Mentorship Abilities – Their accumulated knowledge makes them valuable mentors who can help younger employees develop skills, confidence, and professional judgment.
8. Established Professional Networks – Years of relationship-building can provide valuable connections, business opportunities, and industry insights.
9. Emotional Maturity – Experience can bring patience, perspective, resilience, and an ability to remain composed under pressure.
10. Adaptability – Contrary to popular stereotypes, Boomers have successfully navigated enormous technological and workplace transformations throughout their careers.
I believe number 10 is the most important. It is critical that any candidate has kept up with technology and is not too set in their ways to be flexible and adapt. Some do it beautifully; others won’t make the extra effort. Boomers weren’t digital natives, just like Millennials. It may take a minute longer to master the rapidly changing technology. Be patient.
Look, I have a Gen Z kid, and she definitely does not fit the Gen Z stereotype. But I think that is because she has Boomer parents. Unfortunately, every generation has stereotypes that can be rough, particularly around work ethic. It’s up to us to disprove them. Don’t discount a potential employee because you think they may be a certain way.
Baby Boomers aren't necessarily looking to prove they can work harder than everyone else. They’ve seen a lot. Many have already learned how to work smarter. Hire a Baby Boomer today!
